In the context of processes or tasks that are part of an operating system or program, operating without interaction with the user while the user is working on another task. Background processes or tasks are assigned a lower priority in the microprocessor's allotment of time than foreground tasks and generally remain invisible to the user unless the user requests an update or brings the task to the foreground. Generally, only multitasking operating systems are able to support background processing. However, some operating systems that do not support multitasking may be able to perform one or more types of background tasks. For example, in the Apple Macintosh operating system running with multitasking turned off, the Background Printing option can be used to print documents while the user is doing other work. See also multitasking. Compare foreground1.1. The color against which characters and graphics are displayed, such as a white background for black characters. Compare foreground2 (definition 1). 2. The colors, textures, patterns, and pictures that comprise the surface of the desktop, upon which icons, buttons, menu bars, and toolbars are situated. See also wallpaper (definition 1). 3. The colors, textures, patterns, and pictures that comprise the surface of a Web page, upon which text, icons, graphics, buttons, and other items are situated. See also wallpaper (definition 2). 4. The condition of an open but currently inactive window in a windowing environment. See also inactive window. Compare foreground2 (definition 2).

This definition is in context to Technology. See more contextual defintions for Background.